Moving Forward: A Story of Hope, Hard Work, and the Promise of America

by Karine Jean-Pierre

Overview

“Karine Jean-Pierre illuminates her path to insider status so others can follow in her footsteps.” —Essence

“Jean-Pierre inspires us to get involved in politics—every single one of us, no matter where we are from or who we are.” —The Atlantic

Everyone’s path into politics is different. In Moving Forward, Karine Jean-Pierre tells her own story, looking back on her life as a first-generation Haitian American. And she shares what she’s learned about politics, offering a handbook for anyone who wants to take part, no matter how or where they grew up or how young or old they might be.

Those who care for America are filled with a historic sense of urgency. Together we can create positive change, and in this book, Karine Jean-Pierre shows us how.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781335014887
Publisher:	Hanover Square Press
Publication date:	05/20/2025
Edition description:	First Time Trade
Pages:	304
Product dimensions:	5.30(w) x 7.90(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

Karine Jean-Pierre is the former Press Secretary and Special Advisor to President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. She is the first Black, person of color and openly queer person to serve as White House Press Secretary, and she is the longest standing female in the role. As a long-time advisor to President Biden, Karine has worked in senior communications and political offices in both the Biden and Obama Administrations. Prior to her time in the White House, Karine was the Chief Public Affairs Officer for MoveOn.org. Born in Martinique and raised in New York, she is a graduate of Columbia University.

Editorial Reviews

In Moving Forward, Karine Jean-Pierre shares her inspiring personal story and offers a useful roadmap for all of us about how to make a difference in this big, bustling democracy.” —David Axelrod, former senior advisor to President Obama and a CNN Senior Political Commentator

“Moving Forward arrives at a moment when inspiration, insight, and optimism are in short supply. Karine Jean-Pierre delivers all three in abundance. Her advice resonates across differences with a single, necessary command: Move Forward. With Karine’s book as our guide, we absolutely can.” —Stacey Abrams, author of Lead from the Outside

“Jean-Pierre inspires us to get involved in politics—every single one of us, no matter where we are from or who we are—by remarkably sharing her unlikely march from New York’s Haitian community to Barack Obama’s White House to the clear-eyed MSNBC contributor she is today. –The Atlantic

"If your idea of political power is a bunch of old seen-it-all cynics playing an inside game, Moving Forward will inspire you to believe every voice has the potential to be a mighty force for good. The poignantly honest story of Karine Jean-Pierre’s journey proves that despite formidable obstacles, and profound disappointments, a talented new voice can develop the strength and resilience to thrive and become a force for good who serves as a role model for the next generation of leaders. Looking for hope? Looking for inspiration? You’ll find them here within this remarkable story." —Valerie Jarrett, former senior advisor to President Obama and author of Finding My Voice

“Karine Jean-Pierre’s new book Moving Forward inspires us to re-engage in the struggle for an enduring and just society with a fresh voice that is crucial at this crossroads in American leadership. A child of Haitian immigrants who rose to serve in the Obama White House, her story, while both unique and representative of our ideals, will fill you with hope.” —David N. Dinkins, 106th mayor of New York City

“Karine Jean-Pierre is one of the most important voices of her generation. Her story is the very essence of the American story. This powerful narrative will teach you about strength, courage and determination, reaffirm your faith in our immigrant nation, and have you saying ‘yes she can!’ It will also teach you how you can get involved in helping America live up to its ideals.” —Joy-Ann Reid, author and host of MSNBC's AM-Joy

“Jean-Pierre succinctly but with verve and honest passion lays out practical advice for hopeful activists as she traces her inspirational personal and professional journey.” —Booklist

“Jean-Pierre's enthusiastic first book documents her life in politics and offers advice and encouragement to those thinking of taking a similar path...Inspiring for those who think politics is only for the rich and well connected." —Kirkus Reviews

“Karine Jean-Pierre’s Moving Forward gives us an astute and insightful look at both a remarkable political journey and an inspiring life. Part memoir, part instruction manual, this is one of those books that will become indispensable in helping us make sense of the long election cycle ahead, and beyond.” —Edwidge Danticat, author of Brother, I’m Dying


"Karine Jean-Pierre is at once a committed citizen and a remarkable human being. Moving Forward is not only a field guide for those who would transform our politics but also a manual for living a virtuous and warm-hearted life. This book should be read by political junkies, of course, but also by anyone who appreciates a moving and honest story about the struggles and triumphs of a first-generation American. Jean-Pierre will teach you a lot about elections and movements, and just as much about personal growth and character." —E. J. Dionne Jr., author of One Nation After Trump

"Karine Jean-Pierre illuminates her path to insider status so others can follow in her footsteps." –Essence

"Jean-Pierre shows how and why we all need to participate in democracy and what is at stake if we don't." —Library Journal

From the Publisher